Negaunee- Gerald "Jerry" Donald Ely, age 72 of Negaunee, passed to heaven on May, 23rd 2021, at home surrounded by family.

Jerry was born March 22 ^nd , 1949 to Waldo and Marie Ely in Munising, MI. Jerry met his soulmate, hunting partner, and loving wife at the age of 13.  The two were married while Jerry was in basic training for the Army. While deployed in Vietnam, a year later, his first child was born.  Upon finishing his tour of duty, Jerry continued his childhood interest of electronics at Northern Michigan University and received his degree in Electronics. He soon acquired an engineer position at NMU where he worked and later taught electronics.

While completing his degree and working, Jerry had also begun construction of the family home he built, all while staying on the Dean's List. His drive to build a beautiful life for his family was only surpassed by his willingness to serve. Jerry was a Negaunee Township volunteer fireman for many years. He was a founding member and served as president of the Central Upper Peninsula Sportfishing Association where he was most proud of the handicap fishing access sites that they established throughout the area. However, it was his service of the Lord and bringing others to Jesus, that were most important to him. Over the years, Jerry enjoyed hobbies of hunting, fishing, canoeing, camping, playing guitar, biking, building computers, ice skating, spending time at camp, helping family and friends with projects, and especially spending time with his grandchildren.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 53 years, Bonnie (Powelson) and their three children Mark (Nikki) of Green Bay, Amy (David) Chard of Chassell, MI, and Rhea (Richard) Longcor of Cottage Grove, MN. Six grandchildren: Rachel, Makayla, Matthew, Kassie, Elizabeth, and Ethan. Two great-grandchildren: Eleanor and Ezra. Sisters: Maxine (Don) Thomas, Nancy (Terry) Boucher, and Delrose (Terry) Kovarik. Brothers: John (Linda) Ely and Francis Ely. Brothers-in-law: Don (Shirley) Powelson and Phil (Pat) Powelson. He is also survived by over 100 precious nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Waldo and Marie Ely, Mother-in-Law Rhea Kippola, Father-in-law Orland Powelson, brother Joseph Ely, brother Paul Ely, and brother Richard Ely.

A Celebration of Life with military honors will take place at 3:30 PM on Sunday May 30, 2021 at Jackson Mine Park, 459 Snow St. Negaunee with Michael J. Ely officiating.

The family would like to thank U.P.  Home Health and Hospice and the Oscar G. Johnson Medical Facility of Marquette and Iron Mountain for their excellent care and compassion.

Jerry's obituary may be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.